Michael Martens

As CEO / Managing Director of Riedel Networks, I have been leading the company’s strategic and operational development since 2012, transforming it into a globally operating provider of secure, high-performance network and IT security solutions. Riedel Networks is a privately owned international network services provider, delivering tailored connectivity and cybersecurity solutions to multinational enterprises and mid-sized global players across more than 45 countries. The company operates a global infrastructure with 40+ network nodes, serving clients with complex, mission-critical connectivity requirements. My primary focus is on scaling the business, expanding its international footprint, and positioning Riedel Networks as a trusted partner for enterprise-grade network and security services. I drive long-term value creation by combining strategic growth initiatives with disciplined operational execution. Key achievements and responsibilities include: • Leading the company through a sustained growth phase, achieving consistent double-digit annual growth over more than a decade • Expanding the global customer base, with a strong focus on internationally active mid-market and enterprise clients • Building and operating a scalable global network infrastructure and managed services platform • Driving the integration of network services and IT security (e.g., SD-WAN, SASE, SOC/MDR) into a holistic offering • Strengthening the company’s positioning in mission-critical environments, including media, events, and globally distributed operations • Establishing a high-performance organization and leadership team aligned with growth and customer-centric execution Under my leadership, Riedel Networks has evolved into a recognized global niche provider for customized, secure network solutions, combining agility with enterprise-grade service quality.

Serving as Director Sales Central Europe and member of the German management board, holding full P&L responsibility for a business with €130m+ annual turnover and contributing to both strategic direction and commercial execution. I led the integration of the SMB and wholesale organizations into a single, unified indirect sales structure across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, streamlining the go-to-market approach, strengthening channel alignment, and improving overall commercial efficiency. In parallel, I drove net ACV growth in the SMB segment by shifting the commercial model toward retention-led growth, achieving 107% year-over-year growth (2010–2011), increasing customer lifetime value, enhancing the quality of recurring revenues, and reducing churn through a more structured lifecycle management approach. At the request of the Chairman, I developed the market entry and expansion strategy for Eastern Europe, defining the strategic framework for scalable growth and identifying new revenue pools across emerging markets. In recognition of my leadership impact, I was awarded “Best Manager of the Year” in 2011.

Appointed to the German management board as Director Wholesale Germany, with full power of attorney and end-to-end commercial responsibility for the wholesale business. Drove a full-scale repositioning of the company in the German market, re-establishing it as a leading fibre network provider with a differentiated offering across on-net and off-net connectivity. Built the business to the #1 position in Ethernet services in Germany, underpinned by a rigorous focus on scalable, customer-centric solutions and the introduction of a digital quoting platform that materially simplified and accelerated the purchasing process. Delivered strong wholesale data revenue growth and a step-change improvement in the company’s competitive positioning in the German telecom market.

Built and scaled the Internet Services sales function in Germany from 1999, including the launch of the Internet dial business and securing flagship customers such as Microsoft Network. Led the integration of the UUNET wholesale team and product portfolio into a single, unified organisation. Recognised as a top performer with three consecutive President’s Club awards (1999–2001). Promoted to Sales Manager for Carrier and Internet Services in 2001, and subsequently to Sales Director Wholesale in 2002, joining the German management board with power of attorney. Held revenue responsibility exceeding US$400m, and oversaw key infrastructure and ecosystem assets, including MAE-Frankfurt, at the time one of Europe’s most significant Internet peering hubs.

Originally hired in a network solution architecture capacity, I was quickly moved into a client-facing commercial role based on my strong involvement in the sales process. Led the sale of complex global data solutions, including worldwide Frame Relay networks, to major corporate clients such as Bertelsmann and Beiersdorf, combining deep technical expertise with commercial execution to win and expand strategic accounts.

Provided pre-sales consulting to both the sales organisation and customers on voice and data network design and optimisation. Built the Internet dial product portfolio and trained the sales force on data and IP technologies. Concluded the role during the probation period following a strategic reassessment of market traction and fit.

INFO AG delivered network services to carriers including Sprint and France Telecom Transpac, alongside network and disaster recovery data centre services to enterprise customers, all built on its national X.25 and Frame Relay infrastructure. The company was an early mover in managed Cisco-based networks and VPN solutions, and among the first to deploy Cell Relay technology (via Nortel), a precursor to ATM. In this environment, I covered technical sales support, network planning and configuration, as well as end-to-end network and circuit design, while also contributing to product development.

Led a technical team of up to 20 FTEs responsible for the installation and maintenance of ISDN, text and data services. Directed the initial rollout of ISDN services to enterprise customers, establishing early market adoption and operational delivery standards. This role marked my first leadership position, managing an experienced team and establishing credibility early in my career.

Professional soldier in rocket launcher division 32, leading team responsible for installation and maintenance of radar, radio, telecommunication and weapon communication systems for the LARS 110mm SF2.

Completed a three-year technical apprenticeship, qualifying for civil service certification. Gained hands-on operational experience across both field and logistics functions, including work in warehouse operations. Subsequently took responsibility for the design and rollout of physical network infrastructure, coordinating and managing external contractors, including construction partners.